Newswise — There's no magic pill to prevent cancer. But there are many foods that might help lower the risk of certain cancers.
Researchers have been spurred on by knowledge that populations with diets rich in plant foods have a lower risk of many serious diseases, including cancer. They are honing in on how phytochemicals, naturally occurring chemicals in plants and plant-based foods, may help fight cancer. Fruits and vegetables are loaded with phytochemicals. When tested in laboratory settings, phytochemicals appear to prevent disease.
Dietary guidelines recommend five or more servings of vegetables and fruits every day. The December issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter covers reasons why fiveservings a day is good for you.
* A diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables may help reduce the risk of stomach, prostate, pancreatic, endometrial and breast cancers.
* Most studies have shown an associated risk reduction for lung, oral, esophageal and colon cancers when greater quantities of fruits and vegetables are eaten.
* Citrus fruits have phytochemicals that may offer some protection against pancreatic, breast and prostate cancer.
* Cruciferous vegetables -- such as arugula, bok choy, broccoli, Brussels spouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, radishes and watercress -- have naturally occurring phytochemicals that may help reduce the risk of colorectal and other cancers.
* Studies show that the naturally occurring chemicals in tomatoes may lower the risk of prostate cancer and possibly other types of cancer.
Mayo Clinic Health Letter is an eight-page monthly newsletter of reliable, accurate and practical information on today's health and medical news. To subscribe, please call toll free 800-333-9037, extension 9PR1.
RSS